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Girls Kite Together
Breaking Barriers: How “Girls Kite Together” is Revolutionizing Female Participation in Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing has long been a male-dominated sport, often characterized by dismissive attitudes toward female participants. Sylwia, an experienced kitesurfer herself, encountered this bias firsthand during a winter session at Camber Sands. While assisting Pawel on the beach, she was subjected to disparaging comments that reduced her role to merely carrying equipment—despite her own proficiency in the sport.
This moment of insult became a catalyst for change. Determined to challenge these prejudices and foster a supportive environment for women in kitesurfing, Sylwia conceived the idea of “Girls Kite Together” (GKT)—a female-focused club aimed at inspiring, nurturing, and empowering women in the sport.
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Building a Community
What began as a simple concept has since grown into the largest female kitesurfing community in the UK. GKT was founded with the aim of creating a safe, inclusive space for women to learn, share experiences, and excel in kitesurfing. By offering tailored support and fostering camaraderie, the group quickly attracted members who appreciated the benefits of an all-female community.
One of Sylwia’s first steps was to revamp the underattended Ladies Friday meetings at Camber Sands. Recognizing that weekday sessions conflicted with work schedules, she shifted them to weekends, resulting in a surge in participation. This strategic change, coupled with a fun and welcoming atmosphere, helped spread the word about GKT.
From Small Beginnings to Rapid Growth
The original group in 2020 consisted of just six to eight women, including Olivier, Anya, Lily, Kim, Susie, and Polly. However, the community quickly expanded through word of mouth. Events such as Ladies Coaching Days, led by experienced kiter Polly, paired participants into duos—one kiting and one providing support. These sessions were not only effective in building skills but also fostered lasting friendships and increased confidence among participants.
A Unique Approach
GKT’s success lies in its holistic approach to female empowerment. Beyond teaching technical skills, Sylwia emphasized the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for women to grow. The community thrived as members shared experiences, celebrated each other’s progress, and socialized together. This ethos of total support made GKT a standout in the kitesurfing world.
By June 2020, Sylwia introduced a WhatsApp group to streamline communication, share information, and organize meetups. This initiative enabled GKT to expand its reach, with members visiting various kite locations and teaming up with other like-minded women.
A Thriving Legacy
Today, Girls Kite Together boasts a membership of over 240 women and continues to grow as a vibrant and dynamic community. Under Sylwia’s leadership, GKT has become more than just a kitesurfing club—it is a movement that redefines what it means to participate in a sport traditionally dominated by men.
With a strong focus on inclusivity, skill-building, and collective empowerment, GKT serves as a shining example of how grassroots efforts can inspire widespread change. Through Sylwia’s vision, women across the UK are not only embracing kitesurfing but also building a resilient and supportive network that propels them forward both on and off the water.